The agency had some 200 children without toys at the start of the week, and a Friday distribution deadline fast approaching. It urged residents to donate quickly, with a special request to shop for boys and girls ages 8-12.

The community responded.

“It’s amazing,” said Susan Gilbert, the Salvation Army’s director of social services. “I literally just had 20 people come in with arm loads of toys.”

But more are needed. The agency said it can especially use board games, books, sports equipment, and clothing. The items will be accepted until 10 a.m. Thursday at either the agency’s Carnation Street offices or Tupelo Furniture Market Building V.